For those who have been actively following HB340, please read the update below. Feel free to contact me with any questions or comments at delborrock@house.virginia.gov.

Prior action in 2015 did not truly change the definition of a private animal shelter it simply rearranged the words in the previous definition. However, an attempt by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (oversees animal shelters) this past year to define “purpose” did not allow public input or comment.  The amendment in the nature of a substitute for HB 340 directs the VDACS to enter into the regulatory process to determine “purpose”.  This process will allow for full public comment and participation, thereby ensuring transparency.  The current bill makes no change to the previous definition of “private animal shelter”.